challenge

 

The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) recently invited senior representatives from the Labor and Liberal parties to answer the hard questions regarding issues facing small to medium enterprises (SMEs), including increases in a range of financial and incentive-crippling taxes, increased Workcare premiums, apprenticeships and skill shortages (e.g., Australia’s shortage of welders), energy cost and supply and land tax impositions. Attended by around 20 leaders of local industry, the results of these discussions were disappointing, to say the least. “When are governments, State and Federal, going to realise the vital contribution small to medium businesses make to employment, the financial state, and the industrial future of the entire country, rather than treating us as an ever-increasing source of revenue?” a SEMMA spokesperson said. “Australian industry must be embraced and encouraged to establish, prosper, and grow to compete in local and global markets through operational affordability, opportunity, and innovation.”

When taking questions from the group, new Victorian Minister for Industry, Natalie Hutchins, appeared naive to the challenges of manufacturing and industry in general, responding only with platitudes while making no suggestions or promises to find resolutions. Minister Hutchins did not take up an offer to tour the Hilton manufacturing and pipe fabrication site, limiting her time to a total of 45 minutes. She offered to visit again sometime. Another meeting was held with the Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto, and Shadow Minister for Industry, Bridget Valance. They were open to hearing the challenges facing SMEs; however, no specific policies or solutions were forthcoming. Mr. Pesutto said they were still developing their policies in regard to industrial matters and acknowledged the need to address the problems discussed.

He stated that he was aware of the issues with current energy supply programs and suggested his party (if elected) would develop a policy that considered all users, now and into the future, as we face the net-zero proposition by decarbonising manufacturing. Regarding skill shortages, Mr. Pesutto was open to suggestions from the floor in regard to increased payments for apprentices rather than reducing them, as has occurred under the Allan Labor Government. Both politicians were happy to tour the Hilton site. Even after such a disappointing and non-productive round of talks, SEMMA members have resolved to persevere with such events. Although it is difficult to get a definitive answer from politicians, SEMMA will continue to push for clarification on policies, provide submissions, and meet with political leaders to raise critical issues confronting its members and all SMEs.